He was bailed for pre-sentence reports with all options including custody to be considered by Blackpool magistrates.

Alison Quanbrough, prosecuting, said the manager of Children’s Services, South King Street, found the premises had been broken into and a cabinet containing confidential staff files rifled through on February 4

When interviewed Johnson said he recognised the premises as the old registry office and and thought the building was derelict. He started reminiscing about an old friend’s wedding and decided to go in and look around.

He added he had had no dealings with Children’s Services or Social Services and no motive for viewing confidential staff files.